February 12, 2009

Reporters Notebooks

Lya Wodraska, Salt Lake Tribune: Is there a possibility of a Utah-Florida matchup this fall? Utes ticket manager Zack Lassiter says there are no discussions between the teams and that "our mind-set is our 2009 schedule is full."

Jon Solomon, Birmingham News: The Football Rules Committee unanimously approved keeping the same clock rules. "I think the feeling is A, they're good and B, let it soak for a little bit because we've made so many changes over the years," said Rogers Redding, the committee's secretary rules editor and SEC coordinator of officials.

Hattiesburg American: A George County grand jury has concluded that the death of running back prospect Billey Joe Johnson Jr. in December was an accidental shooting. The shooting occurred when Johnson tried to move the 12-gauge shotgun in the cab of his truck during a traffic stop by a sheriff's deputy, the grand jury determined. Johnson's family and the NAACP don't believe the player would have shot himself on purpose. The incident involving the black teenager and white deputy has divided the community along racial lines. Thanks to Jay.

Scott Wright, Oklahoman: Oklahoma State receiver Bo Bowling has been suspended from the team after he pleaded not guilty to felony drug charges. Plus, receivers Damian Davis and Artrell Woods, backup offensive lineman Trent Perkins and backup defensive lineman Jeremy Gray will not be back with the team for various reasons. Woods suffered a dislocated spine in a weightlifting accident in 2007.

Brett McMurphy, Tampa Tribune: Greg Gregory, who was the offensive coordinator at South Florida, is leaving to become the offensive coordinator at South Alabama. Gregory was demoted by Bulls coach Jim Leavitt after interviewing at Florida.

Tim Woods, Waco Tribune-Herald: Baylor recruit Willie Jefferson was arrested for marijuana possession 10 days before signing his letter of intent Feb. 4. The 6-foot-7 receiver is considered one of the best athletes of Baylor's class.

Jimmy Burch, Fort Worth Star-Telegram: Texas should benefit greatly from having its game against Texas Tech moved up to Sept. 19. The Longhorns will have a big edge with an experienced quarterback and defense.